Misri meets UAE Minister in Abu Dhabi, reviews India-UAE strategic ties amid Iran tensions
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri on Thursday, 7 May 2025, called on Reem Al Hashimy, the UAE's Minister of State for International Cooperation, in Abu Dhabi, with both sides conducting a comprehensive review of the India-UAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The high-level meeting took place against the backdrop of heightened regional tensions following Iranian missile and drone strikes on Fujairah that left three Indian nationals injured.
What Was Discussed
According to a statement by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the two sides "reviewed the full spectrum of the India-UAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and identified areas for further cooperation." They also discussed "the ongoing regional situation and global issues of mutual interest," the MEA noted. The meeting signals New Delhi's intent to keep diplomatic channels active with Abu Dhabi at a moment of acute regional stress.
India's Response to the Fujairah Attacks
Earlier this week, Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the attacks on Fujairah that resulted in injuries to three Indian nationals. "Strongly condemn the attacks on the UAE that resulted in injuries to three Indian nationals. Targeting civilians and infrastructure is unacceptable," Modi posted on X on Tuesday. He added that India "stands in firm solidarity with the UAE" and reiterated support for "the peaceful resolution of all issues through dialogue and diplomacy." Modi also stressed that "ensuring safe and unimpeded navigation through the Strait of Hormuz is vital for enduring regional peace, stability and global energy security."
The Fujairah Incident and Iran's Role
The attacks on Fujairah occurred on Monday, with the UAE holding Iran responsible for the missile and drone strikes on civilian sites and facilities. The UAE's Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned what it described as "renewed unprovoked Iranian aggression," calling the strikes an "unacceptable act of aggression" and a "direct threat to the UAE's security, stability and territorial integrity." The Ministry further stated the attacks violated "the principles of international law and the Charter of the United Nations."
India's Consular Response
The Indian Embassy in the UAE confirmed on Monday that it was "in touch with local authorities for ensuring adequate medical care and welfare of the affected Indian nationals." The Embassy's prompt statement underscored New Delhi's concern for its large diaspora in the Gulf, which numbers in the millions and remains particularly concentrated in the UAE. This is the first confirmed instance of Indian nationals being injured in the current Iran-UAE confrontation.
What Comes Next
Misri's visit to Abu Dhabi is being closely watched as a barometer of how India intends to navigate its relationships with both the UAE and Iran — two partners with whom New Delhi maintains distinct but significant ties. With the Strait of Hormuz central to India's energy supply chain, any further escalation carries direct economic consequences for New Delhi. Diplomatic observers will monitor whether India moves beyond solidarity statements toward a more active mediation posture in the days ahead.